Operating Day at Fry's Electronics

Murphy Canyon-

Amateur radio organizations from all over San Diego County will be setting up their portable operations in the Fry's parking lot this November 7th. This is a great opportunity to meet local hams, and discuss emergency operations. Many will be displaying "go boxes", and other disaster preparedness.

The operation is set-up in the northeast corner of the Fry's parking lot in Murphy Canyon. Just look for the antennas.

Posted By: Mark Grow (Lakeside Fire Retired) KG6LI

Emergency Portable Antenna for 2 Meters

In times of emergencies the difference between communicating, and not communicating, can come down to the antenna. Now let's be honest, the antenna that is typically sold with most amateur handy talkies is far from an effective radiator. One of the first things most amateurs do when purchasing a new radio is to replace the antenna with an upgraded antenna from a number of manufacturers that specialize in antenna construction.

But even with these fancy upgraded antennas some area will continue to have difficulty communication due to surrounding terrain. Often the solution is to get the antenna outside, and higher, but most people envision a large antenna atop a steel mast, not so.

Communication plans built around disaster communications need to be highly portable, inexpensive, and effective. For ages many hams have been constructing effective two-meter antennas out of simple ladder line. This antenna is easy to construct, can be stored in a shoe box, and is easy to deploy in times of emergency. This antenna will help squeak out all the effective power out of that handie talkie.

Two-meter slim-jim antenna simply deployed on the interior wall.

The construction plan for this antenna can be located at this site: Two-Meter Ladder Line Antenna
The parts can be located at many local ham radio specialty stores and electronic supply stores. Keep in mind that you will need an adapter to connect the feedline to the radio. You might want to take your radio with you so they can select the appropriate adapter.

Remember, test the antenna before you need it in an emergency. Try it in different locations around the homestead to see where it's most effective.

Now while this might be an easy construction for some, others might be uncomfortable with antenna construction. If you have questions seek out assistance as an improperly constructed antenna can damage your radio. It's best to seek out assistance when needed.

Mark Grow (Lakeside Fire Retired) KG6LI

Lakeside Communications Volunteers and CERT at the San Diego Hamfest

Lakeside Rodeo Grounds-

On October 3rd, 2015 the Lakeside Amateur Radio Club invited amateur radio operators from all over to their San Diego Hamfest. This event provided a variety of activities for local hams including a swap meet, lectures, wares from local vendors, and attendance from local radio clubs. Part of the events included attendance by the Lakeside CERT Team, and presentations by the Communications Volunteer Group.

Lakeside CERT Team member Robert Kennett staffs the booth at the San Diego Ham Fest.

Lakeside Communications Volunteer Gordon Shackelford presented information to the group about recent progress made by the group in mapping out communications areas that may be problematic during a emergency. Other topics included the formation of the Communications Volunteer Group and their on-going relationship with the Lakeside Fire Protection District.

CVG Gordon Shackelford presents information to the group on current activities by the group to prepare for emergencies.

A number of vendors attended that had specific interest to amateur radio operators. The event was well attended.

Vendors fill the hall at the Lakeside Rodeo grounds.

Submitted By: Mark Grow (Lakeside Fire Retired) KG6LI